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Does OCR represent me in my civil rights complaint?

This is a FAQ explaining OCR's role in the complaint process. The target audience is individuals.

Final

Issued by: Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

Issue Date: July 07, 1905

Does OCR represent me in my civil rights complaint?

No. The HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is a neutral fact-finding agency. We ensure that the laws under our jurisdiction are not violated. If your complaint is accepted for investigation, we may, for example, obtain a promise that the program will change its practices or provide you with a service. Although we will consult with you, you may not be satisfied with any individual remedies proposed. You should consult an attorney about your right to file a private lawsuit in court if you wish to protect fully your individual rights and remedies. You may lose your right to bring a lawsuit if you delay in doing so.

HHS is committed to making its websites and documents accessible to the widest possible audience, including individuals with disabilities. We are in the process of retroactively making some documents accessible. If you need assistance accessing an accessible version of this document, please reach out to the guidance@hhs.gov.

DISCLAIMER: The contents of this database lack the force and effect of law, except as authorized by law (including Medicare Advantage Rate Announcements and Advance Notices) or as specifically incorporated into a contract. The Department may not cite, use, or rely on any guidance that is not posted on the guidance repository, except to establish historical facts.